Hidden Clues: Must-Read Mystery Novels of the Year

Mystery novels have a unique charm, drawing readers into worlds filled with suspense, intricate plots, and unexpected twists. Whether you're a seasoned detective novel enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this year offers an array of compelling mysteries that promise to keep you on the edge of your seat. From psychological thrillers to thrilling mystery books and classic whodunits, here are some of the must-read mystery novels of the year.

1. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

Matt Haig's "The Midnight Library" is not a conventional mystery, but its intriguing premise and emotional depth make it a standout. The story revolves around Nora Seed, a woman who finds herself in a library between life and death, where each book represents a different life she could have lived. As she explores these alternate realities, Nora uncovers hidden truths about her own life and the choices that define her. The novel's blend of mystery, fantasy, and philosophical reflection makes it a compelling read.

2. The Guest List by Lucy Foley

Lucy Foley's "The Guest List" is a modern take on the classic locked-room mystery. Set on a remote island off the coast of Ireland, a glamorous wedding turns deadly when a murder occurs. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of various characters, each harboring secrets and motives. Foley masterfully builds tension and keeps readers guessing until the final pages. The atmospheric setting and intricate plot make "The Guest List" a must-read for mystery lovers.

3. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

"The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides is a psychological thriller that has captivated readers worldwide. The story follows Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who shoots her husband and then stops speaking. Her silence is both a mystery and an obsession for Theo Faber, a forensic psychologist determined to uncover the truth. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia's life, he discovers shocking secrets that blur the lines between patient and doctor. Michaelides' debut novel is a masterclass in suspense and psychological complexity.

4. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman

Richard Osman's "The Thursday Murder Club" introduces readers to a quartet of retirees in a peaceful English village who meet weekly to solve cold cases. When a local developer is found dead, the club members find themselves in the middle of a real-life murder investigation. Osman's charming characters and witty dialogue make this a delightful and engrossing read. The novel's clever plotting and endearing protagonists ensure it stands out in the crowded mystery genre.

5. One by One by Ruth Ware

Ruth Ware's "One by One" is a gripping mystery set in a luxurious ski chalet in the French Alps. When a tech start-up's corporate retreat goes disastrously wrong, team members are cut off from the outside world by an avalanche. One by one, they begin to fall victim to a killer among them. Ware's skillful use of the isolated setting and her knack for building suspense create a tense and thrilling reading experience. Fans of Agatha Christie-style mysteries will find much to enjoy here.

6. The Last House on Needless Street by Catriona Ward

Catriona Ward's "The Last House on Needless Street" is a dark and twisted tale that defies easy categorization. The novel centers on Ted, a reclusive man living in a secluded house at the edge of a forest. When a young girl goes missing, suspicion falls on Ted, but nothing in this story is as it seems. Ward's narrative is deeply unsettling, with layers of mystery and horror that keep readers hooked. This is a novel that will haunt you long after you've turned the final page.

7. The Sanatorium by Sarah Pearse

Sarah Pearse's debut novel, "The Sanatorium," is a chilling mystery set in a renovated luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Elin Warner, a detective on leave, is drawn into the investigation of a missing woman during her stay at the hotel. As a snowstorm cuts off access to the outside world, Elin must uncover the hotel's dark past and confront her own demons. Pearse's atmospheric writing and intricate plotting make "The Sanatorium" a compelling addition to the mystery genre.

8. The Windsor Knot by S.J. Bennett

In "The Windsor Knot," S.J. Bennett presents an intriguing twist on the traditional detective story by casting Queen Elizabeth II as an amateur sleuth. When a young Russian pianist is found dead in Windsor Castle, the Queen secretly takes on the case. With the help of her loyal assistant, she navigates the complexities of palace life and international intrigue. Bennett's clever premise and affectionate portrayal of the Queen make this a delightful and engaging mystery.

9. Before She Disappeared by Lisa Gardner

Lisa Gardner's "Before She Disappeared" introduces Frankie Elkin, a middle-aged woman who devotes her life to finding missing persons. When she arrives in a rough Boston neighborhood to investigate the disappearance of a Haitian teenager, she encounters resistance from the community and local authorities. Gardner's portrayal of Elkin's tenacity and compassion, combined with a gripping plot, makes this a standout novel. "Before She Disappeared" is a thrilling and heart-wrenching mystery that highlights the plight of the missing and the determination of those who seek justice.

10. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

While "Mexican Gothic" by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is more of a gothic horror novel, its mysterious elements make it a must-read for mystery fans. Set in 1950s Mexico, the story follows Noemí Taboada, a glamorous socialite who travels to a remote mansion to check on her ailing cousin. She soon discovers that the house harbors dark secrets and a sinister family. Moreno-Garcia's lush, atmospheric writing and the novel's eerie, suspenseful plot create a captivating reading experience.

Conclusion

This year has brought an exciting array of mystery novels that cater to a wide range of tastes. Whether you enjoy psychological thrillers, classic whodunits, or atmospheric tales of suspense, there's something for every mystery lover. These ten novels, with their compelling characters, intricate plots, and unexpected twists, are sure to provide hours of engrossing reading. So, grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and dive into the hidden clues of these must-read mysteries.